«The Carved Oak» is a unique sightseeing object, which is an old oak tree with bark that appears «eaten»: numerous holes left by woodpeckers give the tree a likeness to Swiss cheese. This unusual appearance is a consequence of the active hunting of birds for larvae of the Great Capricorn Beetle (the great oak barbel), one of the largest European beetles, reaching a length of 35-55 mm.
The Great Capricorn Beetle has a special conservation status: it is included in Annex II of the Berne Convention, is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, and is included in the European List of Saproxylic Protected Species. In the Republic of Belarus, this beetle is listed in the Red Data Book.
The special value of the object lies in the fact that a large population of the Great Capricorn Beetle has been preserved only on the territory of the national park.
By observing the oak tree, the visitor can see firsthand the fragile links of the natural chain: how the woodpecker gets food, and how the tree serves as a habitat for a rare insect. The beetle prefers old oaks with thick cracked bark in well-lit areas; its larvae gnaw holes in the wood, performing a vital function in natural conditions–accelerating the decomposition of dead wood and freeing up space for young growth.
«The Carved Oak» is a living testament to the importance of preserving biodiversity: it clearly shows how the fate of one rare species is inextricably linked to a particular place and its ecosystem. This is not just an old tree, but a natural monument that emphasizes the uniqueness and value of protected areas. Preserving old-growth oak forests and minimizing human impact are key conditions for the survival of this rare beetle and maintaining the delicate balance of nature.
Address: 247995, Republic of Belarus, Gomel region, Zhitkovichi district, village Khlupinskaya Buda, Pererovskoye forestry
Opening hours: Ежедневно, в светлое время суток
Phone: +375 29 125-00-95
E-mail: nptourism@npp.by
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